The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced new guidance regarding how long an immigration medical exam report (Form I-693) remains valid as evidence.
For any Form I-693 properly filled out and signed by an approved civil surgeon on or after November 1, 2023, it will not expire and can be used indefinitely. This means the medical exam will be accepted as proof that the applicant does not have any inadmissible health conditions, without any time limit.
However, immigration officers can still request updated medical exams if they have reason to believe the applicant’s health status has changed since the previous exam, or if the old Form I-693 does not seem to accurately reflect the applicant’s current condition. Officers have discretion to ask for new exams in such cases.
For Forms I-693 completed before November 1, 2023, the previous validity rules still apply. Prior to that date, civil surgeons did not electronically report certain medical information. The USCIS has determined that for these pre-November 1, 2023 exams, a properly completed Form I-693 is valid evidence for two years from the date the civil surgeon signed it.
There is an exception for certain Afghan parolees who came through Operation Allies Welcome. Their pre-November 1, 2023 Forms I-693 remain valid for three years from the civil surgeon signature date.
The key change is that starting November 1, 2023, immigration medical exams done by civil surgeons have no expiration date if properly completed. This new no-expiration policy was done in consultation with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), based on improvements in electronic health reporting.
Immigration Medical Exam Update Summary
- Forms I-693 from November 1, 2023 onward are now valid indefinitely
- Pre-November 1, 2023 forms are generally valid for 2 years
- Some exceptions apply, like 3 years for certain Afghan parolees
Immigration applicants and their representatives should refer to the updated USCIS policies for full details on medical exam validity periods based on the dates involved.
Discussing your case with a knowledgeable immigration attorney will help clarify any questions you may have regarding these changes. The immigration attorneys at Siri & Glimstad will guide you every step of the way and help you avoid delays and ensure that your case is successful.
